The second step in preparing your home for sale

MP900430495 Once you have de-cluttered and gotten rid of your excess 'stuff', it's time to move on to the next step… fixups, updates and painting. You may discover some things that need fixing that you didn't even notice before you cleared out your stuff!

If there is a city inpsection required prior to selling where you live, this is the time to have it done. Some sellers also have their own buyer's inspection done at this point so they aren't surprised by things that turn up in an inspection after getting an offer.

Whether your city requires an inspection or not, the state of Minnesota requires a carbon monoxide alarm within 10 feet of every legal sleeping room so this is the time to get that taken care of as well… Carbon monoxide alarm requirements for Minnesota, including the little details

If you have an inspection, make that the start of your 'to do' list then go through and add to your list room by room… looking at the ceiling, floors, walls, corners, closets, windows and coverings, light fixtures, doors, plumbing, etc with a critical eye. Visualize yourself seeing each room for the first time and note what stands out. This is when you fix those things you planned to fix when you moved in but never got around to it! …and what about removing that wallpaper?! Remember that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes… make them as inviting as possible.

Most people do at least some painting and often some flooring when getting ready to sell. Focus on getting a good, consistent flow of color throughout the house… it can maximize the feeling of spaciousness. This can be a good time for a preliminary meeting with a stager to help with color choices and another eye on what needs to be done to showcase your home to its best advantage.

Finally, don't forget to also look outside… curb appeal includes condition of the property itself, as well as landscaping and accessories. You can prevent a buyer from even coming in the front door if they don't like what they see outside! It sets the stage for what they expect to see inside.

Sharlene Hensrud, RE/MAX Results – EmailSelling Your Home Minneapolis

RELATED POST

Written By

I love what I do! Highly insightful, analytical and creative, there is nothing I love more than helping you find the right solution for your real estate transition. My mission is to serve my clients with honesty and integrity, exceeding their expectations in service and support… and to help others by donating a portion of every transaction to Habitat for Humanity.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter for Market Updates & Mid-Century Modern Listings

Our weekly HomesMSP Update includes current local market information and a curated list of mid-century modern properties for sale, plus posts from an inspector, a lender, a stager, info about neighborhoods, life in the Twin Cities… even recipes!

Hidden

Blog Categories

Archives

Sharon and John Hensrud

About Us

The HomesMSP Team is committed to meeting you where you are and listening… really listening to understand you so we can use our extensive knowledge of the market and local neighborhoods to give you personalized service.